The shoulder turn is one of the keys to generating power in golf. Taking a full shoulder turn, if you’re not doing so already, results in a longer downswing. Because the clubhead travels down on a longer arc, it generates more speed, which results in more distance. As an added bonus, you don’t have to swing harder on the downswing to gain the extra power. Just make sure you’re making a full shoulder turn, and your natural swing will take care of the rest. You can improve your shoulder turn by paying attention to proper swing mechanics, or through flexibility exercises that help you turn your shoulders further.

Shoulder Turn Drill

Step 1

Take your standard grip and your normal address position in front of the ball.

Step 2

Remove your front hand -- the left, for a right-handed golfer -- from the club.

Step 3

Swing the club back with your remaining arm, while turning with your hips and shoulders.

Step 4

Pause at the top of your backswing.

Step 5

Bring your front hand up and regrip the club.

Step 6

Note the position of your hands and try to replicate the position, using a full shoulder turn, when you take a normal swing.

Flexibility Exercise

Step 1

Sit on a floor or an exercise bench.

Step 2

Cross your legs if you’re sitting on the floor, or set your feet flat on the floor if you’re using a bench. Sit erect with your chest high.

Step 3

Place your hands on the back of your head with your thumbs pointed down and both elbows extended back and to the sides.

Step 4

Rotate your upper body as far as you can to the right, keeping your legs still and maintaining the positions of your hands and arms.

Step 5

Bend your upper body down and to the right, then rise back up.

Step 6

Rotate back to your original position.

Step 7

Rotate your upper body to the right, as you did previously, then bend down and to the left.

Step 8

Return to the starting position to complete one repetition. Perform seven repetitions, then repeat the exercise, but begin by rotating as far as possible to your left.

Tip

If you’re looking for a small tweak in your swing, turn your back foot out about 2 to 3 inches farther when you’re in the address position. This should allow for an easier shoulder turn.

References

About the Author

M.L. Rose has worked as a print and online journalist for more than 20 years. He has contributed to a variety of national and local publications, specializing in sports writing. Rose holds a B.A. in communications.